To microwave coconut oil, you must be mindful of a few things. Coconut oil is a versatile ingredient used in many recipes, but it can be challenging to melt without burning it. Microwaving coconut oil is a quick and easy way to melt it, but you could end up with a mess if you’re not careful.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that you’re using a microwave-safe container. Glass, ceramic, and plastic containers are safe but avoid metal containers.
How to microwave coconut oil?
Start by scooping the desired amount of solid coconut oil into a microwave-safe container to microwave coconut oil. Choose a container made of glass or ceramic for safe microwaving. Set the microwave to a low power setting, such as 50% power, to prevent overheating. Microwave the coconut oil in short intervals, around 15 seconds, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
To microwave coconut oil, follow these steps:
Check the container
Ensure that the container you use to microwave the coconut oil is microwave-safe. Glass or ceramic containers are usually suitable for microwaving.
Scoop the coconut oil
Take the desired amount from its original container using a clean spoon or measuring utensil. Place the coconut oil into the microwave-safe container.
Cover the container
If the container has a lid or cover, place it loosely over the top to prevent splattering. If the container doesn’t have a cover, you can use a microwave-safe plate or a microwave-safe microwave splatter guard.
Microwave in short intervals: Start microwaving the coconut oil using short intervals. Set the microwave to a low power setting, such as 50%. Microwaving at a lower power setting helps to prevent overheating or splattering.
Heat in 15-second increments
Microwave the coconut oil in 15-second increments at a time. After each increment, remove the container from the microwave and stir the coconut oil. This ensures even heating and prevents hot spots.
Repeat as needed
Continue microwaving the coconut oil in 15-second increments and stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.
Coconut oil usually melts quickly, so it might not require much time in the microwave.
Use caution when handling
When removing the container from the microwave as it may become hot. Use oven mitts or a towel to handle the container safely.
Stir and use
Once the coconut oil has melted, give it a final stir to ensure it’s completely smooth. It’s now ready to use in your desired recipe or application.
Remember to be cautious when handling heated containers, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for microwave use.
How to make microwave popcorn with coconut oil?
To make popcorn with coconut oil, you can follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- Microwave popcorn bag
- Coconut oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt or other seasonings (optional)
- Start by selecting a microwave popcorn bag that is specifically designed for use in the microwave. These bags typically come with pre-measured popcorn kernels and a built-in oil pouch.
2. Remove the microwave popcorn bag from its outer packaging and place it in the microwave, following the instructions on the packaging.
3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil to the popcorn bag before microwaving. This will replace the regular oil with the popcorn bag and infuse it with a delicious coconut flavor.
4. If desired, add salt or other seasonings to the bag. You can experiment with different seasonings like cinnamon, sugar, chili powder, or any other flavorings you enjoy.
5. Close the microwave popcorn bag according to the instructions on the packaging. It usually involves folding or sealing the bag.
6. Place the bag in the microwave and set the cooking time according to the instructions on the popcorn bag.
Each brand may have slightly different recommended cooking times, so it’s important to follow them to avoid burning the popcorn.
7. Start the microwave and listen closely. The popcorn should start popping rapidly. Once the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops, it indicates that the popcorn is ready.
8. Carefully remove the bag from the microwave and open the bag slowly, paying attention to the hot steam that may escape.
9. Transfer the popped popcorn to a bowl, discarding un-popped kernels.
10. Give the popcorn a gentle toss to distribute the coconut oil and seasonings evenly.
11. Let it cool briefly before enjoying your homemade popcorn with coconut oil.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks for microwaving coconut oil:
Use a microwave-safe container
Ensure your container is microwave-safe. Glass or ceramic containers are usually the best choices.
Start with solid coconut oil
If your coconut oil is in a solid state, it will need to be melted before use. Spoon out the desired amount of solid coconut oil into the microwave-safe container.
Low power setting
To prevent overheating or splattering, use a low-power setting on your microwave, such as 50% power. This allows the coconut oil to heat up more gently and evenly.
Microwave in short intervals
Instead of microwaving for an extended period, heat the coconut oil in short intervals, typically around 15 seconds. This prevents the oil from becoming too hot or boiling.
Stir in between intervals
After each interval, remove the container from the microwave and stir the coconut oil. This helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents hot spots from forming.
Watch for signs of melting
Keep a close eye on the coconut oil as you microwave it. Coconut oil has a low melting point, so that it can melt quickly. As soon as you see it melting, reduce the heating time to avoid overheating.
Be cautious with hot containers
Remember that the container may become hot during microwaving. Use oven mitts or a towel to handle the container safely and avoid burns.
Don’t microwave in the original container
If your coconut oil comes in a plastic or glass jar, transfer it to a microwave-safe container before heating. Some original containers may not be suitable for microwave use.
Adjust quantity and time as needed
The melting time of coconut oil may vary depending on the quantity and microwave power. Adjust the intervals and overall time based on the amount of coconut oil you’re melting and your specific microwave’s power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you safely microwave coconut oil?
Yes, you can safely microwave coconut oil. However, using a microwave-safe container is essential to avoid overheating the oil.
To prevent overheating, microwave the oil in 10-15 seconds intervals and stir until it fully melts.
How do you melt coconut oil without a microwave?
You can melt coconut oil on a stove if you don’t have a microwave. Place the coconut oil in a heat-resistant bowl and place the bowl over a pot of boiling water.
Stir the oil until it’s fully melted.
What’s the best way to keep coconut oil solid?
Coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 76°F (24°C). To keep coconut oil solid, store it in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator.
If you need to soften the oil, place the container in warm water or leave it at room temperature for a few minutes.
How do you warm coconut oil for massage?
You can use the microwave or a stove to warm the oil for massage.
If using a stove, place the coconut oil in a heat-resistant bowl and place the bowl over a pot of boiling water. Stir the oil until it’s warm and comfortable to the touch.
Melting the oil on the stove is my favorite, as I always take the small stainless bowl to heat the oil.
Does microwaving coconut oil affect its benefits?
Microwaving coconut oil does not affect its benefits. However, overheating coconut oil can cause it to lose some of its nutritional value.
To prevent this, avoid overheating the oil and use the microwave in short intervals.